The pre-dawn assault struck residential areas of Zaporizhzhia, killing two civilians and injuring children aged 11 and 15 who were rushed to local hospitals. Witnesses described the terrifying scene as drone munitions rained down on apartment buildings, shattering windows and igniting fires.

The timing appears calculated to disrupt upcoming diplomatic talks in Washington, where Ukrainian leaders intend to secure additional military aid. Local emergency teams worked through the morning to clear rubble and assist survivors, while international condemnation grew, with many viewing the attack as a clear violation of humanitarian law.